If Lotus failed the nose test then Mclaren could have as well, so maybe they both got set back because of it but Mclaren’s launch is digital rather than real because they won’t quite have the redesigned parts yet?

Is there anything to stop them attending the test with a hybrid car, eg last years front nose if that is what has failed ( i am assuming it has only failed one or two tests not all of them) to at least give them some running to aid reliability with all the new regs and especially the powerplants and their cooling have they got that right, some data on the new tyres, shakedown all the systems understand a little of new tyres etc

@prisoner-monkeys I don’t think that is what is being asked. As far as I am aware, you are technically allowed to run an entirely illegal car during a test session provided it meets the safety requirements. It is only during official championship sessions that the car has to comply with the regulations.

Well, the 2013 noses had to be no more than 550mm above the ground. The 2014 noses must be no more than 185mm above the ground. Good luck trying to make a car that will take both.

And since front-end aero is so important, a 2013 front wing would likely compromise the aerodynamics of the car to the point where all McLaren would be able to do is drive around. The data they would collect would be so useless that they might as well not attend.